News

Tall Fleabane: What Can We Do About It?

Community session explores practical control and the potential of biological control

North East CMA, in partnership with the Kergunyah Landcare group, is inviting landholders and community members to a Tall Fleabane Information Session at Kergunyah Hall on Saturday 12 September, from 1.30pm to 3.30pm.

Tall Fleabane (Conyza sumatrensis) is now widespread across the region and presents a growing challenge for landholders and the environment. The session will provide an opportunity to better understand the weed, how it spreads and the options available for managing it.

Soil Health Matters with Grant Sims from Downunder Ag

Sustainable and productive agricultural methods are essential for future farming generations to address the environmental and climate challenges our farming communities face. Improving pasture performance, water retention and long-term soil health can be both cost effective and environmentally positive.

Community members with an interest in sustainable agricultural practices are invited to attend a practical workshop, Soil Health Matters: Multispecies Pastures & Foliar Fertilisers at the Everton Hall and a Markwood farm on Wednesday 16 September 2026, 9am - 4pm.

Bushfire-smart garden design workshop coming to Milawa

The bushfires experienced across Victoria last summer have highlighted the importance of planning and preparing properties for fire. The location, type and ongoing maintenance of vegetation can play a significant role in reducing the impact of bushfire on homes and rural properties.

Community members are invited to attend a free workshop, Landscaping for Bushfires: Garden Design and Plant Selection, at the Milawa Hall on Saturday 22 August 2026 from 10am-12pm.

Bullioh community workshop strengthens disaster recovery and resilience

People living and working across the Upper Murray, Tallangatta and Mitta Valleys, and surrounding areas are invited to attend a practical recovery workshop designed to support wellbeing, build resilience and help individuals and families navigate the ongoing impacts of drought, fire and other significant challenges. 
 
The Recovering Stronger Workshop will be free for the community and will be held on Sunday, 23 August at the Bullioh Hall, Murray Valley Highway, Bullioh between 10am and 3pm.

H5 bird update: Wednesday 5 August

Surveillance activities continue across Victoria following the detection of H5 bird flu in wild birds along the state's south west coastline.

Preliminary testing at Victoria's state lab, AgriBio, has identified 33 further suspect cases of H5 bird flu, including 30 greater crested terns, one gull, one inconclusive magpie and one unidentified bird.

Samples are now undergoing further confirmatory testing at CSIRO's Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness. 

The 33 suspect cases are in addition to the 7 already confirmed cases in Victoria.